In Memoriam: CEA Trade Show Exec. William T. Glasgow, Sr., Passes

In Memoriam: CEA Trade Show Exec. William T. Glasgow, Sr., Passes

2012
William-T-Glasgow
William T. Glasgow, Sr.

Arlington, VA—William T. Glasgow, Sr., known by many in the trade show industry, passed away peacefully in his home on October 23, 2015. Glasgow was vice president and show manager for CES (then called the Winter and Summer Consumer Electronics Show) from 1975 to 1984.

“William Glasgow was a larger-than-life figure who taught me everything I know about trade shows,” said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO of the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA). “He was honest, ethical, hardworking, respected, unflappable and always willing to take time to explain things in a patient and thoughtful manner. We send our condolences to the Glasgow family, friends and former colleagues.”

Glasgow was an icon in the trade show industry for more than 65 years. He began his career at the Conrad Hilton Hotel in Chicago, while attending Loyola University. In 1967, he became director of sales for Hilton Catering at McCormick Place and later returned to McCormick Place as director of sales and marketing for Greyhound Food Management. In 1975, he was hired as show manager by the Electronic Industries Association to manage the Winter and Summer Consumer Electronics Shows, held in Chicago and Las Vegas. He was promoted to vice president and remained in that capacity until he started his own business in 1984, W. T. Glasgow, Inc., which remains in operation today.

Glasgow also organized and was the first chairman of the Major American Trade Show Organizers (MATSO), enabling show managers of major trade shows to have a forum to discuss the unique needs and common problems experienced by shows of large magnitude. In 2010, BG received the Outstanding Achievement in Industry Leadership Award from the International Association of Exhibitions & Events (IAEE). In 2012 he retired, transitioning the leadership of his company to his sons. ce.org

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